azerolles, Monsieur de Mont Louis--

_Gaston_--These men have done as they thought best. I don't judge them,
but I cannot imitate them.

_Antoinette_--Why not, Gaston?

_Gaston_--Ask Montmeyran.

_Verdelet_--The Duke's uniform answers for him.

_Duke_--Excuse me, a soldier has but one opinion--his duty; but one
adversary--the enemy.

_Poirier_--However, Monsieur--

_Gaston_--Enough, it isn't a matter of politics, Monsieur Poirier. One
may discuss opinions, but not sentiments. I am bound by gratitude. My
fidelity is that of a servant and of a friend. Not another word. [_To
the Duke_.] I beg your pardon, my dear fellow. This is the first time
we've talked politics here, and I promise you it shall be the last.

_The Duke_ [_in a low voice to Antoinette_]--You've been forced into
making a mistake, Madame.

_Antoinette_--I know it, now that it's too late.

_Verdelet_ [_softly, to Poirier_]--Now you're in a fine fix.

_Poirier_ [_in same tone_]--He's repulsed the first assault, but I don't
raise the siege.

_Gaston_--I'm not resentful, Monsieur Poirier. Perhaps I spoke a little
too strongly, but this is a tender point with me, and unintentionally
you wounded me. Shake hands.

_Poirier_--You are very kind.

_A Servant_--There are some people in the little parlor who say they
have an appointment with Monsieur Poirier.

_Poirier_--Very well, ask them to wait a moment. [_The servant goes
out_.] Your creditors, son-in-law.

_Gaston_--Yours, my dear father-in-law. I've turned them over to you.

_Duke_--As a wedding present.

THE FEELINGS OF AN ARTIST

From 'M. Poirier's Son-in-Law'

_Poirier_ [_alone_]--How vexatious he is, that son-in-law of mine! and
there's no way to get rid of him. He'll die a nobleman, for he will do
nothing and he is good for nothing.--There's no end to the money he
costs me.--He is master of my house.--I'll put a stop to it. [_He rings.
Enter a servant_.] Send up the porter and the cook. We shall see my
son-in-law! I have set up my back. I've unsheathed my velvet paws. You
will make no concessions, eh, my fine gentleman? Take your comfort! I
will not yield either: you may remain marquis, and I will again become a
_bourgeois_. At least I'll have the pleasure of living to my fancy.

_The Porter_--Monsieur has sent for me?

_Poirier_--Yes, Francois, Monsieur has sent for you. You can put the
sign on the door at once.

_The Porter_--The sign?

_Poirier_--"To let immediately, a m